Physicochemical Properties of Kakamut Gum ( Acacia polyacantha ) and Hashab Gum ( Acacia senegal ): A Comparative Analysis

The physicochemical properties of the natural Gum are very important in determining their commercial value and their use. Herein, the present study aims to identify differences in physicochemical properties of Kakamut Gum (Acacia polyacntha) and Hashab Gum (Acacia Senegal). Samples of Gums were collected as follows: Kakamut Gum from Um fakarin forest and Hashab Gum from Eldemokeya forest, North Kordofan State 2008 – 2009. The two samples were subjected to laboratory analyzed in Warm Seas Agro Business, Elobeid Agricultural Research Station, and Sudanese Standards and Metrology Organization. The study revealed that there were significant differences (p < 0.01) in moisture (dry matter) and optical rotation. Also, significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in the percentage of ash content and viscosity. However, there were no significant differences found in the percentage of the crude fiber, nitrogen (protein), pH, and purity between the two samples. The results obtained demonstrate clearly the physical and chemical characteristics of the two Gums samples and also, throw lights on their nutritional purposes. As well as the study of the physicochemical properties of Kakamut Gum and compare it with Hashab Gum, proved the potential contribution of the Kakamut tree (Acacia Polyacantha) in the Gum production and not depend solely on the Gum produced from the Hashab tree (Acacia Senegal).